Gary Leverett

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USA Valley of Fire

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There are five dips (at washes) along Mouse Tank Road starting just beyond Fire Canyon Road, each marked with a narrow stake and labeled (1,2,3,4, or 5). At one time or another, I’ve parked at every dip and explored the areas on both sides of the road. However, as of July 2023, there are signs prohibiting parking at dips 4 and 5. Be very careful not to step on the very fragile sandstone fins and cryptobiotic soil.

Photography Tips

Early morning or late afternoon or cloudy days. It gets extremely hot in summer months. Winter is a great time to visit this park.

Travel Information

From the Valley of Fire Visitor Center drive 2.5 miles (4 km) up the scenic Mouse Tank Road and park on the concrete at dip number 1. Walk just a few meters to the right side of the road. Note: The park staff tolerate parking at the dips only if there's room to park on the concrete. Do not park on the narrow road. If there's not room to park on the concrete part of the dip, don't park!

Spot Type Outdoor

Crowd Factor Nearly no other people

Best Timing Sunset in winter

Sunrise & Sunset 06:45 - 16:28 | current local time: 14:00

Photo Themes Colored Sandstone Rock Formations

Locations Nevada Valley of Fire State Park

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